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SD 1408

An Act to conduct a public health study of synthetic drugs in the commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Patrick O'Connor

The bill requires the Department of Public Health to conduct a comprehensive, data-driven study on synthetic drugs in Massachusetts and publish policy recommendations by December 1

House concurred
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Bill Summary · SD 1408

Summary: Senate Docket No. 1408 — An Act to conduct a public health study of synthetic drugs in the commonwealth

Quick overview

  • Bill number and title: SD 1408, An Act to conduct a public health study of synthetic drugs in the commonwealth.
  • Sponsor: Patrick M. O’Connor
  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Status: House concurred (the House has concurred with the Senate version; bill moving forward in the process)
  • Filed date (bill text): January 16, 2025
  • Committee action: Referred to the Joint Committee on Public Health (Feb 27, 2025)

Purpose and intent

The bill directs the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) to conduct a comprehensive public health study of synthetic drugs and their impact within the Commonwealth. The study aims to better understand use, effects, prevalence, and health implications, with the goal of informing policy and public health responses.

Key provisions and requirements

  • Definition of “synthetic drugs”: Includes, but is not limited to, synthetic opioids (e.g., fentanyl, carfentanil), synthetic cocaine, bath salts, MDMA, synthetic marijuana, and synthetic psychedelics.
  • Scope of study: DPH must investigate:
    • Use and prevalence of synthetic drugs in the Commonwealth
    • Types of synthetic opioids involved
    • Historical and current usage rates
    • Physical, mental, and emotional short- and long-term health impacts
  • Data collection and analysis: Systematically collect data on the aforementioned areas to assess health implications and trends.
  • Policy and program recommendations: Develop strategic and legislative recommendations aimed at reducing use, including:
    • Public awareness campaigns
    • Educational curricula
    • Rehabilitative therapies
  • Deliverable: A comprehensive report to be filed with the clerks of the Massachusetts Senate and House of Representatives, including:
    • Study findings
    • Recommendations
    • Drafts of proposed legislation (if applicable)
  • Deadline for report: On or before December 1, 2026

Affected entities and beneficiaries

  • Primary agency: Massachusetts Department of Public Health
  • Public health stakeholders: Individuals and communities affected by synthetic drug use, healthcare providers, researchers, schools, and policymakers
  • Policy makers: Members of the Senate and House who will consider the study findings and any resulting legislative drafts

Timeline and procedural notes

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Filed in the Senate: January 16, 2025 (Senate Docket No. 1408; Senate No. 1603)
  • Committee action: Referred to Public Health (Feb 27, 2025)
  • Status update: House concurred (indicating alignment between the House and Senate versions)
  • Reporting deadline: December 1, 2026

Additional context

  • A similar measure was previously filed in the 2023-2024 session (Senate No. 1439), indicating ongoing legislative interest in studying synthetic drugs.
  • No explicit appropriation or funding authorization is shown in the text provided; the bill would require DPH to allocate resources to conduct the study and prepare the report.

This bill focuses on a structured, data-driven examination of synthetic drugs to inform public health actions and potential future legislation.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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